LORAIN — Lorain police arrested a man wanted on an attempted murder warrant Thursday after officers said he ran from a vehicle during a brief pursuit.
According to the Lorain Police Department, officers with the department’s Patrol Impact Team, also known as the PIT Unit, apprehended Eddie Ortiz, 32, on Thursday, May 21. Police said Ortiz was wanted on an active arrest warrant for attempted murder through the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office.
The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office had also listed Ortiz in a public “Weekly Wanted” post. That post said Ortiz was wanted for failure to appear, attempted murder and felonious assault.
Police Say Stop Led To Foot Pursuit
Lorain police said PIT officers saw a vehicle shortly before 5 p.m. near West 14th Street and Reid Avenue. Officers believed Ortiz was a passenger in the vehicle.
Police said officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop near West 18th Street and Long Avenue, but the driver did not comply with lawful orders to pull over.
As officers followed the vehicle, police said Ortiz got out and ran. PIT officers chased Ortiz on foot and took him into custody.
No injuries were reported to Ortiz, officers or bystanders, according to police.
Driver Also Taken Into Custody
Ortiz was transported to the Lorain County Jail. Police said he also faces an additional charge of obstructing official business.
The driver, identified by police as Kyli Velez-Sextella, 26, was also taken into custody and charged with obstructing official business.
Lorain police said the incident is considered closed by arrest.
Prior Case Stems From Jail Stabbing
Cleveland 19 previously reported that Lorain County sheriff’s deputies accused Ortiz of attacking another inmate inside the Lorain County Jail on Oct. 2, 2023. According to that report, deputies said Ortiz allegedly stole a pair of needle-nose pliers from maintenance personnel days earlier, sharpened the tips on concrete and used them in the attack.
Channel 19 reported that Ortiz was charged at the time with felonious assault, attempt to commit murder, illegal conveyance and possessing criminal tools. His bond was set at $160,000, according to the report.
All suspects are presumed innocent unless convicted in court.
